No man who knows aught, can be so stupid to deny that all men naturally were born free.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the inherent freedom of all humans at birth, suggesting that ignorance is an obstacle to recognizing this truth.
John Milton's quote asserts that it is foolish for any knowledgeable person to deny the fundamental principle that all individuals are born with innate freedom. This idea aligns with broader philosophical discussions about human rights and liberty, suggesting that recognizing our natural freedom is a prerequisite for any civilized society. Ignorance or denial of this truth weakens the moral fabric of society, as it leads to injustice and oppression.
In practice
This quote can be used as a powerful statement in a speech about human rights.
They, looking back, all the eastern side beheld Of Paradise, so late their happy seat, Waved over by that flaming brand, the gate With dreadful faces thronged and fiery arms: Some natural tears they dropped, but wiped them soon; The world was all before them, where to choose Their place of rest, and Providence their guide; They, hand in hand, with wandering steps and slow, Through Eden took their solitary way.
The stars, that nature hung in heaven, and filled their lamps with everlasting oil, give due light to the misled and lonely traveller.
Ev'n them who kept thy truth so pure of old, When all our fathers worshipp'd stocks and stones.
Abashed the devil stood and felt how awful goodness is and saw Virtue in her shape how lovely: and pined his loss
The end of all learning is to know God, and out of that knowledge to love and imitate Him.
Apt words have power to suage the tumors of a troubled mind.
Come Judgment Day, we may find that Mumbo Jumbo the God of the Congo was the Big Boss all along.
Impermanence is not something to be afraid of. It's the evolution, a never-ending horizon.
Capital is reckless of the health or length of life of the laborer, unless under compulsion from society.
The problem then with Jesus is that he cannot be removed from his time and transplanted into our own without simply creating him anew
Men are not flattered by being shown that there has been a difference of purpose between the Almighty and them.
But what force in the galaxy is stronger than she is?" "Indifference." Jerusha surprised herself with the answer. "Indifference, Gundhalinu, is the strongest force in the universe. It makes everything it touches meaningless. Love and hate don't stand a chance against it. It lets neglect and decay and monstrous injustice go unchecked. It doesn't act, it allows. And that's what gives it so much power.
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